Athletic Director Hughton announces June retirement

“For nine years, Basil Hughton has been instrumental in the development and growth of Huskie Athletics at the University of Saskatchewan,” said Dean of the College of Kinesiology Dr. Chad London. “He has shown tremendous commitment and leadership within the College, our University, the Canada West and to our student-athletes. He has played a major role in the many academic and athletic successes the students and coaching staffs have achieved. I personally, and on behalf of the College and Dean’s Leadership Team, want to thank Basil for his contributions and leadership at the University of Saskatchewan.”

Hughton started at Huskie Athletics in the 2008-09 season. Under his leadership, the university’s athletics department has won two program-first national basketball titles and 15 Canada West championships. He has seen almost 1,300 student-athletes named to either the national or school All-Academic teams. Hughton also guided Huskie Athletics to a successful bid to host the 2013 and 2014 University Cup men’s hockey championships, and the 2015 men’s volleyball championship.

His leadership extended into the Canada West and the Saskatoon community, serving on the conference Board of Directors for six years — two as president, as well as the Board of Saskatoon of Sport Tourism. He has been chairperson for a number of conference committees including the membership committee, the WHL-partnership group and as sport liaison for women’s hockey, men’s hockey and football.

“Throughout my nine seasons, our student-athletes have achieved great things in the classroom and on the playing surfaces,” said Hughton. “As a group they are the reason why our athletic program exists. I truly respect the hard work, time and dedication shown by our student-athletes, our coaching staff and all others who work within the Huskie Athletics program. Everyone works tirelessly on behalf of our University every day and brings a level of energy necessary on every University campus in Canada.”

Hughton received his Bachelor of Physical Education in 1977, a Bachelor of Education in 1978 and his Master’s in Education in 1992 from the University of Saskatchewan. He was a member of the Huskie football team during the 70s.

Hughton will officially retire on Friday, June 30, 2017.  The search for a new athletic director will begin sometime in the New Year.